Definition of social network

The term "social network" has its roots in the fields of sociology and computer science. In the 1950s, sociologist Jacob Moreno developed a technique called "sociometry," which involved creating charts and diagrams to visually represent the social connections and relationships between individuals. In the 1970s, computer scientist Jon Kleinberg coined the term "small world problem" to describe how quickly information can spread through a network of people who are connected through acquaintances. This concept was further developed in the 1990s by sociologist Mark Granovetter, who described the importance of weak ties, or casual acquaintances, in helping individuals access new opportunities and resources. In 1983, sociologist Barry Wellman and his colleague Davis S. Steinberg proposed the term "social support network" to describe the complex web of relationships that individuals draw on for emotional and practical support during times of need. The term "social network" gained widespread popularity in the late 1990s and early 2000s with the emergence of online social networking sites like SixDegrees.com, Friendster, and Myspace. These sites allowed users to create profiles, connect with friends and acquaintances, and share information and content in a virtual environment. Since then, the term "social network" has become a buzzword in a range of fields, including psychology, communication studies, business, and politics, as people continue to explore the ways in which technology and social connections are changing the way we live, work, and communicate.